How the recession has changed the way we buy cars according to CEO of Associated Motor Holdings
Thursday, July 15th, 2010The recession experienced across the world in the last 18 months has changed he way consumers buy cars. This is a fact evident in South African figures: for every three cars bought, two are purchased from the used car sector The downturn bought a lot of pain to the new car dealers while used car dealers found several new markets thanks to changes in the economy. Firstly the recession hit the middle class really bad and with a record number of repossessions reported by all four of the large banks. These cars were re-sold by the used car segment, with many brands offering buyers a quality and cost effective purchase on various models. Many first time buyers of cars have been able to enter the car market through used car offerings, contributing to the 10 percent growth in cars on South African roads. Now, as consumers recover from a black hole of debt, many are choosing not to go the new car purchase route. Their reasons are varied but for many, the recent recession illustrated the power of a decline in personal wealth. Many experience it with property values, others with currencies and some saw their fortunes fall on the stock market. Many are looking for opportunities to escape this economic phenomenon and are finding it in the used car market. Quality, low mileage used cars are finding buyers quickly. For many buyers they see the value of purchasing a car that is two or three years old, kitted out with high end gadgets and modern safety features, without affecting their status and social standing in life. Buyers are also aware that in the used car market, their money goes a lot further and they can upgrade to a more luxurious model without over-extending their budgets. Read the full article on the KIA Menlyn website.
